From Our Editor: Living to the Max

Photo by Povy Kendal Atchison

I enjoyed living in Jackson, Wyoming, for a number of years, and today it remains one of my favorite mountain summer locations. There’s nothing like riding on one of the many bike paths, kayaking at Leigh Lake and hiking on the area trails—so many tempting activities, so little time.

In the stories in this issue, the homeowners know how to have fun, designing their homes around leisurely pursuits. An empty-nester couple from Denver was attracted to Carbondale, Colorado’s activities of skiing, hiking, biking and camping, so they decided to stay for a month and enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. But by the end of their visit, they ended up buying a one-acre-plus lot and building a new home, saying that the project was one of the best experiences of their lives. They designed the home with spaces that flow between indoors and outdoors, including a rooftop patio overlooking Mount Sopris and the Crystal River. They love to share their home with family and friends, even hosting three-hour concerts for neighbors and their children; see page 154.

White lotus | Photo Courtesy of Darla Worden

A Utah family of 10 designed their home near the foothills of Wasatch State Park— complete with a “designated fun zone” of independent game and media rooms. With five boys and three girls, the family created inviting outdoor spaces, including a basketball court inside the barn-like structure and a swimming pool and pool house with room for all; see page 182. And a homeowner on Flathead Lake built a five-story vertical camp
on the water, where the family enjoys swimming and boating—not to mention the area’s hiking and skiing; see page 172.

For indoor fun, check out New West Knifeworks and its beautiful knives in Napa, California; Park City, Utah; Denver and Aspen stores; see page 93. And in Ketchum, Idaho, a remarkable Rodney Smith photography exhibit takes place through July 25; see page 41.

Photo Courtesy of Darla Worden

Kathryn Turner’s beautiful painting “Water Garden” graces our Gallery department; see page 208, and I can’t help but wonder if it was inspired by the lilies on String Lake in Grand Teton National Park. Hope to see you outside this summer. You’ll find me in my little green kayak, hanging out near the lily pads or having lunch at Dornans.

Photo Courtesy of Darla Worden